Sony Pictures' Gran Turismo trailer promises a high-octane video game movie
Sony Pictures has released the trailer for its highly-anticipated racing film based on the popular video game series of the same name. It is the true story of an amateur gamer turned professional race car driver.
The movie is set in a world obsessed with the racing simulator, with a tournament to find the best virtual racer out there, where the winners get to race in real life.
Here's the trailer for the film:
Jann Mardenborough, played by Archie Madekwe, is a British racer who seeks to turn professional by winning Sony and Nissan's GT Academy competition, where the best Gran Turismo players in the world come together in a pedal-to-the-medal tournament. David Harbour will portray Mardenborough's trainer, Jack Salter, and Orlando Bloom will portray a sports marketing executive.
This is not a game. 🏎️ #GranTurismoMovie is exclusively in theaters August. pic.twitter.com/AV01jZWfl5
— Gran Turismo (@granturismo) May 2, 2023
The film is directed by Neil Blomkamp, best known for District 9 and Elysium.
Sony had a Gran Turismo film in the works as far back as 2013, but it never came to fruition. The road to this summer's release was not without its obstacles. Nonetheless, the highly-anticipated movie promises to be a unique and exciting take on the world of Gran Turismo.
The seminal video game franchise exerted a significant influence on the racing genre since its debut in 1997. Developed by Polyphony Digital and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, Gran Turismo has garnered critical acclaim and commercial success through its intricate simulation of automobile racing, extensive car customization options, and attention to detail in its graphics and sound design.
Take your Gran Turismo 7 experience to new heights on #PSVR2: https://t.co/uFFuNC98q6 pic.twitter.com/cGmyOe0y9j
— PlayStation (@PlayStation) February 27, 2023
The franchise's impact on the video game industry is twofold: it pushed the boundaries of possibility in terms of graphical fidelity and sound design, elevating the overall presentation of racing games; and has been instrumental in popularizing the simulation subgenre of racing games, which emphasizes realistic physics, car handling, and tuning options over arcade-style action.
Learn from the best as 2021 Olympic Virtual Series Winner, Valerio Gallo, shows you his line through Deepforest Raceway. #OlympicEsportsSeries #GT7 pic.twitter.com/UbjBbXnhXa
— Gran Turismo (@thegranturismo) April 28, 2023
One of the key strengths of Gran Turismo is its unparalleled attention to detail in its car models and tracks. Polyphony Digital has forged partnerships with automobile manufacturers to include accurate representations of real-life cars in the game, down to the minutest details of the engine sounds and suspension systems. This level of realism has been crucial in capturing the attention of car enthusiasts and petrolheads, who appreciate the ability to customize and race their dream vehicles.
The franchise's emphasis on simulation has not come at the expense of accessibility. Gran Turismo's inclusion of driving aids, such as traction control and stability control, allows players of varying skill levels to enjoy the game while still experiencing the satisfaction of driving at high speeds and mastering the game's more challenging tracks.
Gran Turismo has also played a role in promoting the popularity of competitive gaming. The franchise's inclusion of online multiplayer modes, community features, and racing leagues has enabled players to compete against each other on a global scale, fostering a sense of community and a competitive spirit.
Gran Turismo hits theatres on August 11, 2023.